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Rabbi Moshe Alshich Born: Adrianople, Turkey, 1508 Died: Damascus, Syria, 1593 Popularly referred to as Alshich. Commentator, kabbalist. As a young man Moshe Alshich settled in Tzfat (Safed), where he received semichah (ordination) from the illustrious Rabbi Yoseph Karo. Among his students was Rabbi Chaim Vital (1543-1620), the famous kabbalist. He also knew Rabbi Yitzchak Luria - the Ari HaKadosh (1534-1572). In 1587 Rabbi Alshich left Tzfat in the wake of the great epidemic, moving to Damascus. Although he wrote no fewer than 1400 responsa, his fame spread due to his eloquence as a preacher. His important commentary on the Torah, Torat Moshe, gained great popularity, and it became known as Alshich HaKadosh (the saintly Alshich). His commentary is based on sermons delivered throughout his long career. He also wrote commentaries on almost the entire Bible. His allegorical method of interpretation coupled with meticulous attention to every detail in the written text, represents a happy medium between the rational and mystical approach. He emphasizes first and foremost the Mussar, the moral ethical lessons to be derived from the Torah. Midrash of Rabbi Moshe Alshich on the Torah (in English)May the merit of the tzaddik Rabbi Moshe Alshich protect us all, Amen. |